DIRECT PRIMARY CARE
Frequently Asked Questions
WHY USE A DIRECT PRIMARY CARE PRACTICE?
The membership fee allows us to provide unhurried care to fewer patients. The average full time family doc manages thousands of patients and hires a lot of staff to interface and manage insurance company demands.
Direct primary care docs care for hundreds of patients–which means better quality for you. We can spend more time, decrease emergency and hospital visits and in many cases decrease the need for costly specialist visits. No insurance means more time with you. Already interested?
SO, DO I NEED INSURANCE?
Yes, we recommend that you carry insurance at a minimum to cover catastrophic and hospital care. Direct Primary Care is an excellent fit for people with high deductible insurance plans or who use cost share programs.
In our practice we do not accept insurance for our services. You may choose to use your insurance for medications, radiology services, durable medical equipment and costly labs (we have great rates on the basics!). We are happy to provide orders for all so that you can use your insurance benefits.
MAY I USE MY HSA TO COVER MY MEMBERSHIP FEES?
Please consult with your accountant or HSA provider regarding the membership fee.
DO I REALLY HAVE DIRECT ACCESS TO MY DOCTOR?
Yes, your calls go straight to our personal phone. Once established you will have access to communicate with us via phone, text, email, and video chat. If you are in town, out of town, at the office or the soccer field. We will help.
WHAT ABOUT LABORATORY TESTING?
We have negotiated discounted prices for common labs. You can use your insurance if you want, but cash payment is likely much more affordable! Again, transparent pricing. You will be billed for labs at the point of care. No arguing with the insurance company.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?
Functional Medicine is a systems biology-based approach to healthcare in which the underlying (or root) causes of disease are identified and addressed in order to help patients achieve vitality.
IS DR. READER A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER?
Dr. Reader does not provide Primary Care Services. She offers functional medicine services only. You must have a primary care provider for all routine care, such as annual physicals, screening tests, acute illnesses and emergencies. Don’t have a primary care provider? Check out Dr. Mann’s services!
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
We do not accept insurance for our services and are unfortunately unable to see patients who are eligible for Medicare.
WHAT ABOUT LABORATORY TESTING?
Some tests can be done through conventional laboratories while others are only offered through speciality laboratories. Tests may require a blood draw while others involve at home stool, urine or saliva collection. Certain tests can be billed through insurance but many are not covered by insurance.
IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE EXPENSIVE?
Functional Medicine may seem more expensive than traditional insurance-based primary care. However, consider the amount one might spend on other out-of-pocket expenses, such as therapy, cosmetic procedures or even designer purchases. Remember that investing in your health yields a very high return. Avoiding medications, doctor visits and hospital stays will ultimately keep money in your pocket. Health, wellness and improved quality of life are priceless!